Chapter 2The Passenger Seat Principle

We got home thirty minutes later. Mom and Dad had prepared a feast of all my favorites: mac and cheese, brisket, the works.

But because of the drive, I had zero appetite. I picked at my food and went to my room early.

That night, Mom knocked on my door.

"Maya, honey? Is something wrong? You’ve been quiet since you got back."

I shook my head, not wanting to worry her.

Mom sat on the bed and took my hand. She tilted her head and smiled. "Did you forget? We promised to be best friends forever. What kind of best friend keeps secrets?"

I looked up at her warm smile, and the dam broke. The grievance I’d been holding back poured out in tears.

Mom wiped my face. "Don't be scared. No matter what, Dad and I have your back. We’re basically superheroes. There’s nothing we can’t fix."

I managed a laugh through the tears. "Mom, I’m twenty, not two."

"So? Even at twenty, you’re still my baby."

With her support, I told her everything about the car ride.

Mom went silent. She looked at me thoughtfully. "Are you willing to forgive her this one time?"

I felt a pang of sadness, but I nodded. "For Liam."

Mom smiled, a glint in her eye. "Get some sleep. Tomorrow, I’m giving you a present."

The next morning at breakfast, Dad slammed his coffee mug down. "We’re going to the dealership. You’re getting a car."

My eyes widened. "What? Why?"

Dad glared at Liam. "We were going to get you one eventually, but we’re doing it now. My daughter shouldn't have to walk on eggshells just to sit in a passenger seat."

Liam turned bright red. "Dad, it was a misunderstanding. Tiffany knows she was wrong. It’s my fault for not handling it better."

Mom scoffed. " glad you realize that. Your punishment is coming with us to help your sister pick out a ride."

Liam nodded vigorously.

There’s an eight-year gap between Liam and me. I was the miracle baby my parents prayed for, so naturally, I was spoiled. Liam was raised with one rule: Protect your little sister.

He felt guilty about yesterday. He was stuck between his girlfriend and his family, like the filling in a bitter Oreo. Plus, Tiffany really had crossed a line.

He ruffled my hair. "Pick whatever you want, kiddo. I’ve saved up some cash. If Mom and Dad’s budget isn't enough, I’ll cover the rest."

Mom laughed. "Keep your money, kid. We treat you both equally. Maya gets a $40,000 budget, just like you did."

Before we left, Liam’s phone rang.

His face fell. He stammered, "Uh, Mom... Tiffany wants to come too."

Mom smiled a smile that didn't reach her eyes. "Great! Girls know what girls like. Maybe she can give Maya some advice."

Liam nodded, but he looked like a man walking to the gallows.